J&J was ordered to pay the family of a woman who died from ovarian cancer $72 million in actual and punitive damages. The woman had used the company’s talcum powder product as part of her personal hygiene regime for years prior to developing ovarian cancer. In other court case, J&J was ordered to pay another woman $55 million in actual and punitive damages after she developed ovarian cancer after years of using its talcum powder products.

How is Baby Powder Linked to Ovarian Cancer?

A major component of Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder is talcum. Talcum is a mineral that has been shown to have excellent moisture absorbing properties. Because of its ability to control moisture, talcum is used in baby and feminine hygiene products. Numerous studies, some dating back to the 1970’s, have linked the use of talcum powder to ovarian cancer. The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with the use of talcum powder based products.

The attorney for the family who received $72 million for the loss of their loved one is now speaking out regarding J&J’s knowledge of the link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer. He also alleges the company not only knew about the potential risk for developing cancer but intentionally marketed the product to women based on their ethnicity.

Taking Advantage of Traditions

Attorneys claim that internal documents revealed during the lawsuit show that Johnson & Johnson knew about the dangers of talcum powder. Instead of warning women of the risk of developing ovarian cancer they intentionally targeted black women. According Omise’eke Natasha Tinsley, professor of African Studies at the University of Texas, corporations have been using the known beauty rituals of African American women to sell their products for decades.

Tinsley explained in a recent article for TIME the history of talcum powder use among African American women, and how it became a staple beauty product for so many women of color. Tinsley cites research showing that twice as many black women use talcum powder as white women. For Tinsley and others it appears that J&J has purposefully used known racist stereotypes to increase its profits without regard to the risk it was placing on these women.

Have You Developed Ovarian Cancer After Using Talcum Powder?

If you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer or lost a loved one to ovarian cancer, you need to investigate the link to talcum powder. Thousands of women are suing Johnson & Johnson for its deception and negligent disregard for the health and lives of consumers. Jurors have stated clearly that they agree with plaintiffs by awarding millions of dollars in damages.

Time is limited! You must file your claim before time runs out. Our talcum powder attorneys understand the research and the evidence linking these products to ovarian cancers. Our experience and resources can help you receive compensation for your injuries. We can help you hold Johnson & Johnson accountable for its actions that resulted in your pain and suffering.